Facial Aesthetics

Anti-wrinkle injections are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment used to reduce the
appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, primarily by relaxing the facial muscles. 

How They Work

Muscle Relaxants: Products containing botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture) temporarily block nerve signals to targeted muscles, preventing them from contracting. This relaxation smooths the overlying skin and is most effective for dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by repetitive facial expressions like frowning or smiling (e.g., forehead lines, frown lines between the brows, and crow’s feet).

• Reduced Signs of Aging: The primary benefit is a smoother, more youthful facial appearance.
• Minimally Invasive: The procedures are quick, non-surgical, require no downtime, and generally cause minimal discomfort, allowing a quick return to daily activities.
• Increased Confidence: Many individuals experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence with an improved appearance.
• Preventative Measures: For younger patients, muscle relaxants can act as a preventative treatment, stopping new lines and wrinkles from forming or deepening over time. 

Risks and Side Effects

When administered by a qualified and experienced practitioner, anti-wrinkle injections are considered safe, but potential side effects can occur.

Common, temporary side effects:

• Redness, swelling, and minor bruising at the injection site (usually subside within 1 hour).
• Mild headaches, which usually subside within 24-48 hours.
• A feeling of a “slack” or heavy face temporarily.

Rare, but more serious risks:

• Temporary eyelid or brow droop (ptosis) due to the toxin spreading to adjacent muscles.
• Asymmetry in facial expressions.
• Allergic reactions.
• In very rare cases, systemic spread of the toxin leading to botulism-like symptoms (e.g., severe muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing or breathing), though this is extremely uncommon with cosmetic doses.

Duration of Effects

The effects of muscle relaxant injections are temporary. They take two weeks to develop and last around three months. Repeat treatments are necessary to maintain the desired results but the frequency of treatments may reduce over time.